[Review] BORN LIKE THIS (9th Mini Album) – AB6IX

1 month ago 49

In September last year, AB6IX made a comeback with their 9th mini-album, BORN LIKE THIS, which was led by the single NVKED. I am finally getting around to reviewing the mini-album. In addition to the lead single, 4 additional tracks feature on the mini-album. As usual, AB6IX released a solid mini-album, with perfect songs marking the start and end of the album. In addition to the title track, I highly recommend you check out these tracks at the very least on BORN LIKE THIS.

In more recent times, AB6IX made a comeback almost a year after the release of BORN LIKE THIS with their 10th mini-album and single of the same name, STUPID. I have yet to review the title track, but I will do so soon.

1. In My Vein – In My Vein is a powerful hip-hop track that kicks off the mini-album very strongly. The thumping instrumental features a really cool rhythm that appeals to me from the outset. But it is AB6IX’s vocals that stand out the strongest in the song. There is a certain sleekness and classy vibe to the vocals that brings a great deal of character and tone to the song. Similarly, the rapping was also super engaging and extends that hip-hop influence. The “I have it in my vein” hook was also super catchy. Overall, a powerful opener for the mini-album. (10/10)

2. NVKED (Title Track) – Click here for NVKED’s full review. (8/10)

3. Forever Young – Forever Young combines pop-rock with a touch of old-school hip-hop in the second verse and rap portion of the bridge. I have to say that the chorus, which features the pop rock in its purest form, was extremely satisfying. The hip-hop was nicely executed and adds a further appealing dimension to the song. Overall, a decent side track from the group. (8/10)

4. Hurt Me – Hurt Me brings Latin-pop to the mini-album. Ideally, this influence would have brought a touch of freshness to the mini-album. However, it ultimately gets overshadowed by the percussion and synths in the chorus. Where it does shine through in Hurt Me, it definitely gives the track some life, flair, and energy. Truthfully, AB6IX continues the momentum that the Latin-pop influence brings through the percussion and synths. But the balance is off for me, and I find this to be a barrier to fully appreciating the song. (7.5/10)

5. Butterfly Effect – The mini-album started off strong and ended strongly with Butterfly Effect. I really liked the combination of the synth-pop and classical elements in Butterfly Effect. It makes for a pretty and strong background for AB6IX. The changes in tempo, from upbeat to soothing, thanks to the instrumental combination, make this track super dynamic and engaging. The best part has to be the bridge, with the classical music creating a beautiful instrumental piece. To top off Butterfly Effect, there are also stunning vocals and rapping throughout the track, as well. A great ender to this mini-album. (10/10)